United States authorities have formally charged Elias Rodriguez, the suspect in the fatal shooting of two Israeli embassy employees in Washington, D.C., with multiple counts of first-degree murder and federal firearm violations.
According to court documents filed Thursday, Rodriguez faces two counts of first-degree murder under D.C. Code 22-2101. The charges stem from a deadly incident that occurred on May 21, 2025, in the U.S. capital, where the victims—both employees of the Israeli diplomatic mission—were killed in what officials describe as a targeted attack.
“I, the complainant in this case, state that the following is true to the best of my knowledge and belief… the defendant(s) violated: … D.C. Code 22-2101… First Degree Murder (two counts),” FBI Special Agent Christina Hagenbaugh stated in the complaint submitted to the District Court.
In addition to the murder charges, Rodriguez is accused of murdering foreign officials, causing death through the use of a firearm, and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence—serious federal offenses that carry the possibility of life imprisonment or the death penalty.
The motive behind the attack has not yet been publicly disclosed, and investigations are ongoing. U.S. federal authorities are coordinating with Israeli officials as part of the diplomatic and security response to the tragedy.
The Israeli embassy has not released the identities of the victims pending notification of their families. A statement from the embassy expressed deep sorrow and called for a thorough investigation.
This case has sparked renewed concerns over diplomatic security in the U.S., prompting reviews of protocols at embassies and consulates nationwide.
For more updates on this developing story, stay with Prime Africa News.
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